The Effect of High Expectations for Student Through put on Academic Quality: In a Selected Higher Institution | [Pakistan Journal of Life and Social Sciences • 2025]

Author(s):

1. Maxhobandile Ndamase: Walter Sisulu University Faculty of Economic and Financial Sciences

2. Manoj Panicker: Walter Sisulu University Faculty of Economic and Financial Sciences

3. Yamkela Ntando: Walter Sisulu University Faculty of Economic and Financial Sciences

Abstract:

In the academic world, the term throughput is essential for researchers, line managers, and educators. Every institution is working towards increasing the student's persistence and graduation rate. However, in the process of increasing graduate rates, there is a concern about the academic quality produced by higher institutions. The study used expectancy theory as the foundation of the study. In light of this, the study sought to assess the effects of academic throughput on students' academic quality. The qualitative research approach was embraced. Data was collected using semi-structured interviews with eight participants through a purposive sampling technique, and collected data was analysed using the thematic approach. The findings revealed that the system applied by the university to achieve high graduate rates compromises academic quality. The study further revealed that students are granted many assessments to ensure that all students pass so the institution can achieve high graduation rates. Furthermore, the study indicates that the system passes one pass all, and no one cares about the quality. The study recommends that there is a need for the re-evaluation of the system employed. Finally, the study recommends prioritizing quality rather than throughput to ensure that institutions produce quality graduates.

Page(s): 9187-9199

DOI: 10.57239/PJLSS-2025-23.1.00721

Published: Journal: Pakistan Journal of Life and Social Sciences, Volume: 23, Issue: 1, Year: 2025

Keywords:

Academic Throughput Academic Quality Graduate Rates

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